Hagerman treasure

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument in Hagerman, Idaho is significant because it protects the world's richest fossil deposits from the late Pliocene Epoch. The Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument began with the findings of the ancient horse fossils more than 70 years ago, and have since birthed the discovery, to date, of 200 different species of plants and animals. Paleontologists throughout the world recognize the fossil beds in Hagerman for the quantity, quality and diversity of their Pliocene Epoch fossils. Recognized initially for the discovery of ancient horse fossils, the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument is now home to many beautiful specimens that represent the last remnants of species that existed before the ice age, as well as specimens marking earliest appearances of modern plants and animals. About 13,000 people visit the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument each year to discover the ancient secrets hidden in the bluffs towering above the Snake River, and catch a glimpse into what life was like 3 million years ago.

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Visiting the Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument. Courtesy of the National Park Service.

Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument. Courtesy of the National Park Service.